potential tourists.

And the Ministry is hoping that its new Travel Agent Guide will also help to boost the numbers of visitors in the traditionally low season of November to March.

It is all part of a $1.3 million drive to increase tourism which has declined dramatically over the past few years. Advertisements in American newspapers will point out that temperatures rarely drop below 68 degrees in the winter, making the Island ideal for golf, tennis, sightseeing and other activities.

In fact, Government and a number of hotels and shops are offering a 68 Degree Temperature Guarantee which will see visitors get a 20 percent discount if the temperature goes below that figure.

But first tourism officials want to know that travel agents are advertising the Island correctly.

Assistant Director of Marketing, Mr. Peter Smith said: "We are stressing that our campaign is not just for customers of travel agents but for the travel industry itself.

"People do not realise that the temperatures in Bermuda do not often fall below 68 degrees and that is the point we are trying to make.

"It is difficult to get the attention of travel agents because they have so many destinations to deal with. We are making a major attempt to make sure the travel industry are supportive of Bermuda as possible.'' The Travel Agent Guide is added to packages which will be handed out to tourists on their arrival into Bermuda, offering advice on special programmes and restaurants on the Island, and a chance to win a free return trip.

It states: "Everyone knows that Bermuda is the ideal vacation spot between the months of April and October. But what many do not realise is that Bermuda is also an ideal vacation spot from November to March.

"And since this is considered the light season your clients can receive excellent value packages and rates, especially when compared to similar destinations for this time of year.

"By recommending Bermuda during these months you'll not only be giving your customers a better vacation value for their money, you'll be giving yourself increased profits as well, because Bermuda has one of the highest repeat visitor rates of any vacation destination from November to March.'' Launching the 68 Degree Temperature Guarantee, Tourism Minister the Hon. C.V.

(Jim) Woolridge said: "This is the period when we need our tourists more than any other time of the year.''